Dear Whys Guy: "Why Can't Men Get It Together Earlier?"

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Q: My husband always, always, always waits until the week before Christmas (or any big event like our anniversary, birthdays, etc.) to shop. Why can't men get it together earlier? You know, plan a bit? It wouldn't matter so much except that I know he's spending so much extra money on express shipping, since we both do most of our shopping online now that we have a new baby at home!

A: I've tried to plan ahead and get my kids and my wife Karel presents throughout the year, and never works. The Thomas the Train railroad that was on sale in June that my kids loved playing with in the store has given way to Star Wars and ninjas by the time Christmas rolls around, so even though I saved 50% and had a present ready and waiting for them, it doesn't matter since they're not going to play with it and it just takes up space.

The same goes for Karel. The antique butter churn that she's going to make our own butter with that she's so excited about in October is less exciting in December when she's recommitted to a vegan lifestyle that leaves little room for make-your-own-butter adventures. Maybe your husband's just trying to make sure his choices are current. Also, with all the other stuff that needs to get done, buying stuff just isn't a priority until it needs to be (usually at the last minute).